Yeah it can be fixed if you're willing to put in the effort. Here's a good guide.

http://artisanbreadbaking.com/ka_greasing/

Mine had some sort of grease coming out of it last year so I haven't really been using it. You could probably contact Kitchen Aid but since it's so old (as is mine) they might not be able to fix it for free.

Funny you should post this today because I'm thinking of buying a new one. Kohl's has them on sale, and right now they have a 25% off code. And certain mixers have a $50 rebate from Kitchen Aid. Kohl's is also offering $10 Kohl's Cash for every $50 spent. I think it's a really good deal!!! Good luck trying to decide on a color, they are all so nice!

My mixer is 17 or 18 years old. I was cleaning it after I used it last time and noticed some black smutz on the silver piece where you attach the dough hook or whisk or whatever you're using. I can't it to stop. So I put it away and have been using the hand mixer for baking. Has this happened to anyone else? Can it be fixed? TIA!